The ballroom transforms into Oz for Dancing With the Stars Season 34’s highly anticipated Wicked Night, with all 10 remaining couples showcasing incredible routines to songs from the iconic musical, including special guest judge and film director Jon M. Chu.
The stage is set for a truly spellbinding evening as Dancing With the Stars Season 34 embraces the enchanting world of Wicked for its highly anticipated themed night. Following an emotional week of dedications, the remaining 10 couples are ready to cast a spell on viewers and judges alike with performances inspired by the beloved musical. This special event promises to be a highlight of the season, delving into the iconic songs and storytelling that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Adding an extra layer of magic to the night, Jon M. Chu, the acclaimed director of the upcoming Wicked film adaptation, will join the judging panel as a special guest. His presence offers a unique perspective, blending his cinematic vision for Oz with the live energy of the ballroom. Chu will sit alongside resident judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli, providing expert critique and insight.
The Enduring Legacy of Wicked and Its Cinematic Future
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, has been a Broadway phenomenon since its debut, celebrated for its powerful songs, intricate narrative, and themes of friendship, prejudice, and destiny. The musical’s enduring popularity has paved the way for a highly anticipated film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, as reported by Variety. The Dancing With the Stars tribute not only celebrates the musical’s stage success but also builds excitement for its cinematic future, showcasing the music that fans eagerly await to see brought to life on the big screen.
The “Wicked Night” episode will kick off with a professional dance medley featuring a compilation of iconic songs from the musical, including “No One Mourns the Wicked,” “Defying Gravity,” “For Good,” “Thank Goodness,” “Dancing Through Life,” and “What Is This Feeling?” This opening promises to immerse viewers fully into the magical world of Oz before the couples even take the floor.
Unveiling the Performances: Couples, Songs, and Styles
The couples have been meticulously matched with songs and dance styles that embody the spirit of Wicked, promising a blend of drama, emotion, and technical prowess. Here’s a detailed look at what each pair will be performing:
- Jen Affleck and Jan Ravnik will perform a Foxtrot to “As Long as You’re Mine” by Cynthia Erivo and Jonathan Bailey.
- Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa are set to dance a Rumba to “For Good” by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.
- Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy will perform a dynamic Jazz routine to “What Is This Feeling?” by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
- Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach will showcase a passionate Rumba to “I’m Not That Girl” by Cynthia Erivo.
- Danielle Fishel and Pasha Pashkov are tackling an Argentine Tango to “No Good Deed” by Cynthia Erivo.
- Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten will perform an expressive Contemporary routine to “Defying Gravity” by Cynthia Erivo featuring Ariana Grande.
- Scott Hoying and Rylee Arnold will present a heartfelt Contemporary dance to “The Wizard And I” by Cynthia Erivo, featuring Michelle Yeoh.
- Robert Irwin and Witney Carson are slated for a high-energy Jazz to “Dancing Through Life” by Jonathan Bailey, featuring Ariana Grande, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, and Cynthia Erivo.
- Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas will perform a lively Quickstep to “Popular” by Ariana Grande.
- Andy Richter and Emma Slater will deliver a spirited Jazz to “One Short Day” by Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel featuring Michael McCorry Rose.
Fans have keenly followed the journey of these couples, with some familiar faces returning from previous themed nights. For instance, Jordan Chiles and Whitney Leavitt previously tied at the top of the leaderboard on TikTok night, while Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach also scored impressively. Meanwhile, Andy Richter and Emma Slater, who were at the bottom during TikTok night and performed a Viennese Waltz on Disney Night, will be aiming to climb the ranks with their Jazz routine this week.
The Road to the Mirrorball: Competition Heats Up
With each passing week, the competition on Dancing With the Stars intensifies. Viewers’ votes combined with the judges’ scores play a crucial role in determining which couples advance and who faces elimination. The “Wicked Night” is more than just a celebration of a beloved musical; it’s a critical moment for the couples to demonstrate their versatility, artistry, and ability to connect with a powerful theme. Fans can anticipate elaborate costumes, intricate choreography, and heartfelt performances that truly capture the essence of Oz.
The official details for Dancing With the Stars Season 34’s “Wicked Night” were released ahead of the episode, confirming the couples, their chosen songs, and dance styles, as detailed by Us Weekly. Tune in to ABC and Disney+ on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET to witness this magical night, with new episodes streaming the next day on Hulu. Every twirl, lift, and emotional expression will count as these stars vie for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.
